Hebrews 6:3 – “And God permitting, we will do so.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This short verse might seem simple at first, but it carries deep meaning. The writer of Hebrews has just finished saying that believers should move beyond the basic teachings about the faith and grow into spiritual maturity. Now, in verse 3, he adds, “And God permitting, we will do so.”
This is a humble and hopeful statement. It shows that spiritual growth isn’t just about human effort-it depends on God’s help and permission. We can’t mature without God working in us. The writer expresses a desire to grow and to help others grow, but he fully recognizes that this can only happen if God allows and enables it.
In other words, it’s not just about our will-it’s about God’s will too. The writer is saying, “Yes, let’s move forward, and we will-if God allows us to.” It reflects a heart that trusts God’s timing and relies on His power.
Historical Context
Hebrews was written to early Jewish believers who were facing pressure, confusion, and persecution. Many were tempted to go back to the familiar ways of Judaism. Some were not growing spiritually and were stuck in basic truths without moving deeper in their faith.
The writer had just challenged them to mature and warned them against staying spiritually immature. Now, with verse 3, he expresses his intention to help them grow-while submitting all of it to God. In a time of uncertainty, this kind of trust in God’s will would have been encouraging and grounding for the readers.
Theological Implications
This verse shows us an important truth about Christian growth: it’s not something we can force by ourselves. We are called to obey, to learn, and to seek God-but it’s ultimately God who gives growth. The phrase “God permitting” reminds us that our plans are always under His authority.
It also teaches us about the balance between human responsibility and God’s sovereignty. We’re called to move forward and mature, but we do so with a heart that says, “Only if God allows it.” It’s not passive-it’s dependent.
Literary Analysis
Grammatically, this verse is a continuation of the previous sentence. The phrase “And God permitting” uses a conditional structure, indicating that something will happen if God allows it. It reflects the tone of the writer-determined yet humble.
This brief verse also acts as a transition. It wraps up the encouragement to grow and sets the stage for the warning that follows in verses 4–6. It shows the writer’s desire to lead the readers deeper into the truth, but also his complete reliance on God to make that growth possible.
Biblical Cross-References
- Proverbs 16:9 – “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.”
- James 4:13-15 – We should say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.”
- 1 Corinthians 3:6-7 – Paul says he planted, Apollos watered, but God made it grow.
- Philippians 2:13 – “For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.”
- John 15:5 – Jesus said, “Apart from me you can do nothing.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For believers today, Hebrews 6:3 is a strong reminder to trust God with our growth. Yes, we should study His Word, pray, and stay in fellowship with other believers-but real maturity comes only when God works in us.
It also teaches us humility. We may have plans to grow or lead others, but we should always acknowledge that it’s up to God. It’s good to desire maturity-but even better to seek it while trusting God’s timing and direction.
This verse also speaks to those who feel stuck. Sometimes we try and try but don’t feel like we’re growing. Hebrews 6:3 reminds us to keep pressing on-and to trust that God, in His grace, will grow us when the time is right.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Only a loving God would care enough to be involved in our spiritual growth. He doesn’t just save us and leave us on our own-He walks with us, leads us, and helps us grow at the right pace.
By saying “God permitting,” the writer shows that God is in control-but not in a cold or distant way. He’s actively guiding us toward maturity, out of love. His timing is perfect. His care is constant. And He knows exactly what each of us needs in our journey.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the one who makes growth possible. Without Him, we can do nothing (John 15:5). Through His death and resurrection, He opened the way for us to be saved. Through His Spirit, He helps us grow. And through His example, He shows us what maturity looks like.
Jesus depended on the Father’s will in everything (John 5:19). When we say, “God permitting,” we’re following in Jesus’ footsteps-submitting our plans to the Father just like He did (Luke 22:42).
Also, through Christ, we have confidence that God does want us to grow. He doesn’t withhold growth from us. He is for us, and He’s committed to completing the work He began in us (Philippians 1:6).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Are you actively seeking to grow in your faith-or have you settled for staying where you are?
- In what areas of your life are you trying to grow without depending on God?
- How does knowing that growth comes “if God permits” help you trust Him more deeply?
- What does it look like to both take responsibility for your spiritual life and fully rely on God?
- Can you see areas where God has already grown you over time? How does that encourage you?